Efforts directed at attaining social justice intensified toward the end of the 2010s. This is due in no small part to the evolution of social media which allowed society the means to educate itself on pressing social issues, especially women’s rights. These conversations continue to open more gateways for opportunities for women and marginalized people, as well as victims of abuse to find respite and justice for being unjustly wronged. International Women’s Day holds, at its core, the mission to celebrate women’s achievements, as well as forge a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day celebration is #EmbraceEquity. Although “equality” and “equity” are used interchangeably, they don’t mean exactly the same thing. The focus on equity highlights that even when opportunities seem equal, they might not adequately cater to a person’s needs because we are all not the same. The 2023 edition of International Women’s Day aims to promote an equitable distribution of resources to meet people at their exact point of need and give them opportunities based on the peculiarity of their lives.

At BOUNCE, we’re passionate about ensuring women are adequately represented, protected, and provided for in society. This year’s International Women’s Day celebration sees us celebrate our very own Women of Bounce who fuel the team with their energy at every waking moment. They let us in on who inspires them to be the badasses they are.

Runo Adaware (Digital Content Associate, Bside)

Inspiration: Bunmi George (pka JBums)

JBums is a trailblazer whose life’s work is dedicated to helping people, especially women, have easier journeys than she did. Born Bunmi George, she is a businesswoman, author, dietician, and fitness professional. She is the founder and CEO of Shredder Gang, a fitness initiative that has helped over 70,000 women in their fitness and wellness journeys.

Runo loves Jbums because of her ability to be multiple things at once. “One thing I love about Jbums is that she balances everything,” she says. “From motherhood and entrepreneurship to lifestyle and spirituality, she is the real definition of balance.”

Fancy Goodman (Resident Film Writer)

Inspiration: Beyoncé

Beyoncé needs no introduction. The all-encompassing performing artiste and businesswoman has delivered so many iconic moments to the world and her fans. Since breaking on to the scene with Destiny’s Child and eventually going solo, she has won awards and hearts alike across the world. Her latest project, Act I: RENAISSANCE won 3 Grammys at the 65th Grammy Awards held in February, which saw her break the record for most Grammy wins ever with 32 wins under her belt.

Our resident film-head and writer, Fancy alludes to her hard work. She tells me, “Beyoncé has an excellent work ethic and always delivers with excellence.” She also loves the fact that Bey stays out of the mix, avoiding petty squabbles and conversations.

Favour Ike (Presenter)

Inspiration: Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey redefined what it means to talk. The famous presenter and talk show host dominated American, and indeed global, television for over 25 years. She was the richest African-American of the 20th Century and at a point in time, was the only black billionaire in the world. Through the power of conversation, Oprah brought joy to all.

Being a presenter herself, it is easy to see why Oprah is a source of inspiration to Favour. “She is ambitious and resilient,” Favour tells me. “She is one of the few women in the media industry who truly set the standard.”

Feyikemi Ibhaze (Executive Assistant and Administrator)

Inspiration: Jumoke Adenowo

Olajumoke Adenowo’s career trajectory and status is nothing short of impressive. At 14 she was admitted into Obafemi Awolowo University. At 23, she worked on the Federal Ministry of Finance project after deciding to ply her trade as an architect with Femi Majekodunmi Associates. She opened her firm, AD Consulting, in 1994, working on over 70 projects since its inception, with clients including L’Oreal and Coca-Cola.

It is clear that Jumoke Adenowo is used to pushing boundaries. This is what appeals to Feyikemi the most. She says that her favorite trait of Adenowo is her audacity to take on and do more.

Joanna Mogo (Human Resources)

Inspiration: Temilade Salami

With the current state of the country’s environment, it is refreshing to see that people care about putting these things right. Temilade Salami excels in this field. She is an environmentalist and Marine Biologist who has put efforts in spreading the importance of environmental sustainability. She is the CEO and Executive Director of Eco Warriors — a youth-led social enterprise and professional volunteer network that focuses on environmental education to combat the menace of environmental pollution in Nigeria.

Her passion for environmental change is the biggest green flag for Joanna. She says, “I love how passionate she [Salami] is about climate education, as well as her contribution to environmental policies and practices.”

Catherine Fiyebo [aka DJ Champ] (Audio Production)

Inspiration: Serena Williams

The tennis legend is one of the best athletes in the history of modern sports. Serena Williams was ranked #1 in the Women’s Tennis Association singles for 319 weeks, including a joint record of 186 consecutive weeks. She is known for her powerful serve and forceful groundstrokes. As a pop culture icon, Serena became synonymous to serial winning, a true representation of her tennis career.

Catherine once thought she was headed for the tennis path and so drew inspiration from Serena. Although Catherine is killing it as a DJ now, she still holds Serena Williams in high esteem. “I love how she supports women on a large scale,” Catherine says. “She has always preached equal pay for men and women in sport. I love her!”

Cecilia Odey (Graphic Designer)

Inspiration: Andrea Iyamah

Entrepreneurship can take a huge toll on people so it is refreshing to see when it works out for others. Andrea Dumebi Iyamah is blessed to be a successful entrepreneur, owning her self-titled clothing line, Andrea Iyamah. Born in 1993, Andrea Iyamah started her brand at the age of 17 and hasn’t looked back since. She has since been featured on Forbes, Vogue, Huffington Post and more.

Cece is our resident fashionista, so her admiration for Andrea is not far-fetched nor out of place. “I like her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and detailed creativity,” she says. “Despite having no formal training in fashion design, she has managed to successfully build a fashion business from scratch. She reminds me that determination and hard work pays.”